Blowout structure and training system

Abstract

To provide a technology capable of improving a user's sense of realism and exhilaration during training exercise while suppressing a dead space.SOLUTION: A training system 1 for supporting a user's exercise is provided with a blower 13 that creates an atmosphere flow, and a blowout structure 2 that takes in the atmosphere flow created by the blower 13 and blows it out toward the user. The blowout structure 2 is provided with an air blowing pipe that forms an atmosphere flow path, and a connection pipe that takes in the atmosphere flow created by the blower 13 and leads it to the air blowing pipe. The air blowing pipe is provided with a blowout port for blowing the atmosphere outward, and the blowout port blows the atmosphere out toward the user from below the user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a technique for improving the sense of realism and exhilaration in training exercise. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, devices have been proposed that send wind to a user during training to enhance the sense of realism and exhilaration. Such a device is described, for example, in Patent Document 1. Patent Document 1 describes a training device that detects the speed (virtual speed) during training using a tachometer and sends wind to the user at a speed that immediately corresponds to the detected speed. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Publication No. 63-034454 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the technology described in Patent Document 1, the air blower is placed in front of the user, which causes the air blower to be in the user's field of vision, impairing the sense of realism. Therefore, Patent Document 1 also describes placing a potted plant between the user and the air blower.

[0005] However, placing a potted plant between the user and the blower in this way blocks the wind generated by the blower, reducing the feeling of freshness, and also increases the installation space, resulting in increased dead space.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a technology that reduces dead space while improving the user's sense of realism and exhilaration during training exercise. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problem, the invention of claim 1 is a blow-out structure that takes in a flow of atmosphere formed by an external blower and blows it out toward a user, and includes an air supply pipe that forms a flow path for the atmosphere, and a connection pipe that takes in the flow of atmosphere formed by the blower and leads it to the air supply pipe, and the air supply pipe is formed with an air outlet for blowing the atmosphere outward, and the air outlet blows out the atmosphere toward the user from below the user.

[0008] The invention of claim 2 is the blowout structure according to the invention of claim 1, wherein the air supply pipe is arranged so that the flow path is in a substantially horizontal direction.

[0009] The invention of claim 3 is the blowout structure according to the invention of claim 1, wherein the air supply pipe is arranged so that the flow path surrounds a user in a plan view.

[0010] The invention of claim 4 is the blowout structure according to claim 1, wherein the air supply pipe changes the direction of the atmosphere blown out from the air outlet.

[0011] The invention of claim 5 is the blowout structure according to claim 1, wherein the air supply pipe changes its position between a first position and a second position, thereby changing the arrangement of the flow paths.

[0012] The invention of claim 6 is a training system that assists a user in exercising, comprising: a blower that forms a flow of atmosphere; and a blow-out structure that takes in the flow of atmosphere formed by the blower and blows it out toward the user; the blow-out structure comprises an air supply pipe that forms a flow path for the atmosphere; and a connecting pipe that takes in the flow of atmosphere formed by the blower and leads it to the air supply pipe; the air supply pipe is formed with an air outlet for blowing the atmosphere outward; and the air outlet blows out the atmosphere toward the user from below the user.

[0013] The invention of claim 7 is a training system according to the invention of claim 6, further comprising an exercise observation device that acquires exercise data relating to the exercise of the user, and adjusts the airflow rate of the blower according to the exercise data acquired by the exercise observation device.

[0014] Furthermore, the invention of claim 8 is a training system according to the invention of claim 6, further comprising a human body observation device that acquires human body data about the user during exercise, and adjusts the airflow rate of the blower according to the human body data acquired by the human body observation device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0015] The inventions described in claims 1 to 8 comprise an air supply pipe that forms a flow path for the atmosphere, and a connecting pipe that takes in the flow of atmosphere formed by the blower and leads it to the air supply pipe, and the air supply pipe is formed with an outlet for blowing the atmosphere outward, and the outlet blows the atmosphere toward the user from below the user, so that the user's field of vision is not obstructed and the sense of realism is not impaired. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic external view showing a training system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing electronic devices provided in the training system. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing functional blocks included in the operation terminal device together with a data flow. [Figure 4] 1 is a diagram showing a blow-out structure according to a first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a schematic external view showing a training system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a blow-out structure according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8]FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing how a straight pipe and a third connecting member are connected. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, unless otherwise specified, in the following description, descriptions of directions and orientations correspond to the drawings for the convenience of the description, and do not limit, for example, the implementation, product, or scope of rights.

[0018] 1. First Embodiment 1 is a schematic external view showing a training system 1 according to a first embodiment. Although details will be described later, training system 1 is configured as a system for assisting in the exercise of pedaling a bicycle (cycling exercise). In other words, training system 1 is a so-called cycle trainer.

[0019] FIG. 1 illustrates an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis that are perpendicular to each other. The X-axis and the Y-axis are axes that are approximately horizontal, and the Z-axis is an axis that is approximately vertical. Furthermore, the Z-axis is positive in the vertical upward direction. The same applies to the following explanation.

[0020] The training system 1 includes an exercise machine 10 that the user uses to perform the desired exercise, a seat 11, a stand 12, a blower 13, a monitor device 14, an air outlet structure 2, a human body observation device 3, and an operation terminal device 4.

[0021] The exercise machine 10 in the first embodiment has wheels 100, 101 and is a typical commercially available bicycle. In this way, the training system 1 can use a commercially available bicycle as the exercise machine 10. A user can use their own bicycle as the exercise machine 10 and use it in the training system 1 to train. This allows for training using equipment that the user is familiar with, while also reducing costs. Furthermore, when a new bicycle is purchased or after repairs, a "break-in" can be performed. However, the exercise machine 10 may also be dedicated training equipment such as a fitness bike, treadmill, or chest press.

[0022] 1 shows an example in which the (+Y) direction is the front of the bicycle. Therefore, of the two wheels of the bicycle, wheel 100 positioned in the (+Y) direction is the front wheel, and wheel 101 positioned in the (-Y) direction is the rear wheel.

[0023] The seat 11 is a plate-shaped member made of, for example, hardened rubber. The seat 11 is placed between the exercise apparatus 10 and the stand 12 and the floor, and prevents damage to the floor and noise caused by vibrations and other factors during exercise. However, the seat 11 is not an essential component for the user to exercise. Even if the training system 1 does not include the seat 11, the user can still perform cycling exercise.

[0024] The stand 12 has the function of fixing the bicycle, which is the exercise equipment 10, so that it does not move (or fall over) during exercise. However, the stand 12 supports the bicycle (exercise equipment 10) in a state where the wheels 101 (drive wheels) can rotate.

[0025] The stand 12 not only allows the wheels 101 to spin freely but also has the function of applying a load to the wheels 101. For example, a structure in which the wheels 101 come into contact with a roller-like structure that can rotate while applying a load can be considered.

[0026] The blower 13 has a function of drawing in and discharging the surrounding air (atmosphere) to form a flow of atmosphere (wind). The blower 13 can be realized as a device that rotates a fan using an electric motor, for example, but is not limited to such a structure.

[0027] Furthermore, blower 13 is connected to operation terminal device 4 in a state where wireless data communication is possible. In other words, blower 13 also functions as a wireless slave device. Blower 13 can change the airflow rate, for example, by changing the rotation speed of the electric motor, according to control from operation terminal device 4. In the first embodiment, blower 13 can switch the airflow rate between three levels: "weak," "medium," and "strong." However, the number of levels of the switchable airflow rate is not limited to three.

[0028] The flow of atmosphere formed by the blower 13 is discharged toward the blow-out structure 2, the details of which will be described later.

[0029] The monitor device 14 is a general playback device that plays back video and audio. The monitor device 14 also functions as a wireless slave device and is capable of data communication with the operation terminal device 4. The monitor device 14 has a function to play back video and audio under the control of the operation terminal device 4 and allow the user to view them while exercising (training).

[0030] The blowout structure 2, the human body observation device 3, and the operation terminal device 4 provided in the training system 1 will be described later.

[0031] 2 is a block diagram showing electronic devices provided in training system 1. Although not shown in FIG. 1, stand 12 in the first embodiment is provided with exercise observation device 15 as shown in FIG.

[0032] The exercise observation device 15 is a device equipped with sensors that observe the state of exercise. Examples of sensors that the exercise observation device 15 is equipped with include a sensor that measures the number of rotations of a bicycle wheel and a sensor that measures load (weight). The exercise observation device 15 may also have a function to measure the environment in which the exercise is being performed (room temperature, humidity, air pressure, brightness, time, etc.). Examples of such environmental measurement sensors include a temperature sensor, humidity sensor, air pressure sensor, illuminance sensor, and clock. However, the exercise observation device 15 does not need to be equipped with all of the sensors exemplified here. The exercise observation device 15 may also be equipped with additional sensors not exemplified here.

[0033] Furthermore, motion observation device 15 is connected to operation terminal device 4 in a state where data communication is possible. Motion observation device 15 creates motion data 150 based on observed numerical values ​​and the like, and transmits the data to operation terminal device 4. In other words, motion observation device 15 also functions as a wireless slave device.

[0034] The human body observation device 3 is equipped with sensors (not shown) that observe the state of the human body (user), such as body temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, sweating, blood pressure, or blood oxygen concentration. However, the human body observation device 3 does not need to observe all of the events exemplified here. The human body observation device 3 may also be equipped with additional sensors that observe events not exemplified here.

[0035] Furthermore, the human body observation device 3 is connected to the operation terminal device 4 in a state where data communication is possible. The human body observation device 3 in the first embodiment performs wireless data communication with the operation terminal device 4. In other words, the human body observation device 3 has the function of a wireless slave device. The human body observation device 3 creates human body data 300 (FIG. 2) based on observed numerical values ​​and the like, and transmits it to the operation terminal device 4.

[0036] The human body observation device 3 in the first embodiment is configured as, for example, a wristwatch-type device, as shown in Figure 1. This allows the user to easily wear the human body observation device 3 on their body.

[0037] The operation terminal device 4 is configured as a tablet-type device and is attached to the handle of a bicycle (exercise machine 10) as shown in Figure 1. Although not shown in detail, the operation terminal device 4 is configured to be detachable from the handle.

[0038] The operation terminal device 4 includes a CPU 40, a storage device 41, an operation unit 42, a display unit 43, and a wireless communication unit 44.

[0039] The CPU 40 reads and executes the program 410 stored in the storage device 41, and performs calculations on various data, generates control signals, etc. As a result, the CPU 40 has the function of controlling each component of the operation terminal device 4 and calculating and creating various data. In other words, the operation terminal device 4 is configured as a general computer.

[0040] The storage device 41 provides a function of storing various data in the operation terminal device 4. In other words, the storage device 41 stores electronically fixed information in the operation terminal device 4.

[0041] Examples of storage device 41 include RAM or buffers used as temporary working areas for CPU 40, read-only ROM, non-volatile memory (such as NAND memory), hard disks that store relatively large amounts of data, and portable storage media (such as CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, PC card, SD card, and USB memory) attached to dedicated reading devices. In FIG. 2, storage device 41 is illustrated as if it were a single structure. However, storage device 41 is usually composed of multiple types of devices (or media) that are adopted as needed from the various devices (or media) listed above. In other words, storage device 41 is a general term for a group of devices that have the function of storing data.

[0042] In addition, the actual CPU 40 is an electronic circuit equipped with a RAM that can be accessed at high speed. However, for convenience of explanation, such a storage device equipped in the CPU 40 will be described as being included in the storage device 41. That is, the description will be given assuming that the storage device 41 also stores data temporarily stored by the CPU 40 itself. As shown in FIG. 2, the storage device 41 is used to store a program 410, user data 411, switching data 412, and playback data 413. Although not shown, the storage device 41 is also used to store human body data 300 and exercise data 150.

[0043] User data 411 is information about the user. Information included in user data 411 includes, for example, the user's gender, age, weight, and training history. However, user data 411 is not limited to such information. For example, user data 411 may include information about exercise equipment 10 (a bicycle owned by the user).

[0044] The switching data 412 is data created by the operation terminal device 4 to control the fan 13. The switching data 412 includes data indicating the ON / OFF state of the fan 13 and data indicating the airflow volume ("weak," "medium," or "strong") when the fan 13 is ON. The switching data 412 is created by the CPU 40 and transmitted to the fan 13 as necessary.

[0045] The playback data 413 is data created by the operation terminal device 4 to control the monitor device 14. The playback data 413 includes data indicating the ON / OFF state of the monitor device 14 and data specifying the video and audio to be played back when the monitor device 14 is ON. The playback data 413 is created by the CPU 40 and transmitted to the monitor device 14 as necessary.

[0046] The operation unit 42 is hardware that is operated by a user to input instructions to the operation terminal device 4. Examples of the operation unit 42 include various keys and buttons, switches, a touch panel, a pointing device, and a jog dial.

[0047] The operation unit 42 is operated by the user to input necessary information into the user data 411. The operation unit 42 is also operated by the user to operate the blower 13 and the monitor device 14.

[0048] The display unit 43 is hardware having a function of outputting various data to a user by displaying them. Examples of the display unit 43 include a lamp, an LED, a CRT, a liquid crystal display, and a liquid crystal panel.

[0049] The wireless communication unit 44 provides the operation terminal device 4 with a function of performing wireless data communication. As a result, the operation terminal device 4 functions as a wireless master device and is able to perform wireless data communication with the blower 13, the monitor device 14, the human body observation device 3, and the exercise observation device 15.

[0050] 3 is a diagram showing functional blocks and data flows included in the operation terminal device 4. A communication control unit 400, an air flow control unit 401, and a monitor control unit 402 shown in FIG. 3 are functional blocks realized by the CPU 40 operating in accordance with a program 410.

[0051] The communication control unit 400 has a function of storing the human body data 300 and the exercise data 150 received by the wireless communication unit 44 in the storage device 41. The communication control unit 400 also has a function of controlling the wireless communication unit 44 to transmit switching data 412 to the blower 13. The communication control unit 400 also has a function of controlling the wireless communication unit 44 to transmit playback data 413 to the monitor device 14.

[0052] The air blowing control unit 401 has the function of monitoring the human body data 300 transmitted from the human body observation device 3 and the exercise data 150 transmitted from the exercise observation device 15, and referring to the user data 411 as necessary to create switching data 412 for controlling the air blower 13.

[0053] Air blowing control unit 401 controls the air blowing amount of fan 13 by creating switching data 412. The purposes for which air blowing control unit 401 controls the air blowing amount of fan 13 can be roughly divided into two.

[0054] The first is to lower the user's body temperature, which has risen during training, by blowing air. This reduces the user's risk of heatstroke and improves their comfort, for example. The second is to increase the sense of realism of training. This can add fun and interest to monotonous indoor training, for example, and increase the user's motivation to continue training.

[0055] For the former purpose, it is preferable to mainly monitor the human body data 300, detect a rise in the user's body temperature, and increase the airflow volume accordingly. In this case, it is also effective to refer to the body temperature rise process (user data 411) during past training and increase the airflow volume in advance. Of course, it is also preferable to refer to the amount of exercise in the exercise data 150 and the exercise environment such as room temperature, but the user's body temperature is not necessarily at its highest when the amount of exercise is at its highest.

[0056] For the latter purpose, it is preferable to adjust the airflow volume according to the current exercise volume by mainly monitoring the exercise data 150. In such control, the airflow (airflow volume) that the user should receive is generally greatest when the movement speed during training is at its maximum.

[0057] In this way, it is preferable that the control of blower 13 by blower control unit 401 be changed according to a plurality of purposes. The purpose for which control is to be realized may be selected by the user, for example.

[0058] The air blowing control unit 401 also has a function of creating switching data 412 in response to a user instruction input from the operation unit 42. This allows the user to use the operation terminal device 4 as a remote controller for the air blower 13. In other words, the air volume of the air blower 13 can also be adjusted manually by the user.

[0059] The monitor control unit 402 has a function of monitoring the exercise data 150 transmitted from the exercise observation device 15, and referring to the user data 411 as necessary, to create playback data 413 for controlling the monitor device 14.

[0060] The monitor control unit 402 can provide the user with a kind of virtual reality experience using audio and video by creating playback data 413 for the monitor device 14. For example, the monitor control unit 402 selects video to play based on the date and time included in the exercise data 150. That is, if it is winter, a snowy landscape can be played as video. The playback speed can also be adjusted based on the speed included in the exercise data 150 to adjust the speed of the scenery that flows by. This allows the user of the training system 1 to perform training with a sense of realism.

[0061] It should be noted that the monitor control unit 402 in the first embodiment includes selection information (specific information) of video and audio in the playback data 413, and the target video and audio data is prepared in the monitor device 14. This makes it possible to reduce the volume of the playback data 413 transmitted from the operation terminal device 4 to the monitor device 14.

[0062] What the monitor control unit 402 provides is not limited to virtual reality. For example, the monitor control unit 402 may calculate the calories burned during training based on information included in the exercise data 150 and display text information. Alternatively, the monitor control unit 402 may display progress information up to the target distance during training, current speed, etc. Furthermore, the monitor control unit 402 may use AI to evaluate the quality of training and display the evaluation value.

[0063] The monitor control unit 402 also has a function of creating playback data 413 in response to a user instruction input from the operation unit 42. This allows the user to use the operation terminal device 4 as a remote controller for the monitor device 14.

[0064] Fig. 4 is a diagram showing the air outlet structure 2 in the first embodiment. Fig. 4 is a plan view seen from the (+Z) side toward the (-Z) side. Note that Fig. 4 only shows the approximate positions of the wheels 100 of the exercise machine 10. Also, Fig. 4 shows the flow path of the atmosphere and its flow direction with thick arrows.

[0065] The blowout structure 2 includes a connection pipe 20 and air supply pipes 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25. Although not shown in Fig. 4, the connection pipe 20 and the air supply pipes 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25 in the first embodiment are made of paper and are circular pipes with a doughnut-shaped cross section.

[0066] However, the material of the connection pipe 20 and the air supply pipes 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25 is not limited to paper, and may be a synthetic chemical material such as polyvinyl chloride, a resin such as hard rubber, or a metal such as aluminum. Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape is not limited to a doughnut shape, and may be, for example, a shape in which the contact portion with the sheet 11 is flat (a semi-cylindrical outer shape). In this way, by making the contact portions between the connection pipe 20 and the air supply pipes 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25 and the sheet 11 flat, the blow-out structure 2 can be more stable when placed on the sheet 11.

[0067] The connecting pipe 20 is a short pipe oriented along the Y axis.

[0068] The end of the connection pipe 20 on the (+Y) side is connected in communication with the blower 13 (the outlet of the blower 13, not shown). As a result, the atmosphere discharged from the blower 13 is taken into the connection pipe 20. In other words, the end of the connection pipe 20 on the (+Y) side forms an atmosphere blowing port (intake port).

[0069] The connection pipe 20 in the first embodiment does not have an opening to the outside, and the end on the (-Y) side is connected to the air supply pipe 21 and the air supply pipe 25. Therefore, the connection pipe 20 has the function of taking in the flow of atmosphere formed by the blower 13 and guiding it to the air supply pipe 21 and the air supply pipe 25. In other words, the connection pipe 20 forms a flow path for the atmosphere, as shown by the thick arrow in FIG.

[0070] As already explained, one end of the air supply pipe 21 is connected in communication with the connection pipe 20. The other end of the air supply pipe 21 is connected in communication with the air supply pipe 22. The other end of the air supply pipe 22 is connected in communication with the air supply pipe 23. The other end of the air supply pipe 23 is connected in communication with the air supply pipe 24. The other end of the air supply pipe 24 is connected in communication with the air supply pipe 25. The other end of the air supply pipe 25 is connected in communication with the connection pipe 20, as already explained.

[0071] 4, the air supply pipes 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25 are arranged in a ring shape to surround the wheel 100. However, by being arranged in a ring shape to surround the wheel 100, the air supply pipes 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25 are arranged to surround the user during training. In other words, the air supply pipes 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25 are arranged in a positional relationship with the exercise apparatus 10 (wheel 100) taking into account the position of the user when using the exercise apparatus 10. In particular, the air supply pipes 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25 are arranged so that the flow path of the atmosphere is substantially horizontal (within a horizontal plane).

[0072] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a cross section of the air supply pipes 22 and 24. As shown in FIG.

[0073] A through-hole that connects the inside of the air supply pipe 22 to the outside is formed on the side of the air supply pipe 22, and forms an air outlet 200. This allows a portion of the atmosphere flowing inside the air supply pipe 22 to be blown out from the air outlet 200. That is, the air outlet 200 for blowing the atmosphere out is formed on the side of the air supply pipe 22. A plurality of air outlets 200 are formed along the flow path of the atmosphere, thereby forming an air curtain.

[0074] Although not shown in detail, the opening shape of the air outlet 200 is circular. However, the opening shape of the air outlet 200 is not limited to a circular shape, and may be, for example, a slit shape extending in the longitudinal direction of the air supply pipe 22.

[0075] Similarly, an outlet 200 for blowing the atmosphere outward is formed on the side surface of the air supply pipe 24. Although not shown, similar outlets 200 are also formed in the air supply pipes 21, 23, and 25.

[0076] As shown in Figure 5, the air outlet structure 2 in the first embodiment can be positioned relative to the wheel 100 so that the atmosphere blown out from the air outlet 200 is directed toward the user when using the exercise equipment 10, by determining its placement position relative to the wheel 100.

[0077] With this structure, the air outlet 200 can blow out the atmosphere from below the user toward the user. This eliminates the need to place the air outlet structure 2 on the (+X) side of the user. Therefore, the air outlet structure 2 does not obstruct the user's view during training and does not impair the sense of realism.

[0078] Furthermore, by arranging the air outlet structure 2 in this manner, it is possible to minimize an increase in the horizontal area required for training. In other words, the training system 1 requires less space than conventional techniques.

[0079] However, the direction in which the atmosphere is blown out does not have to be strictly vertically upward (directly below). That is, it may be tilted relative to the vertical direction as shown in Fig. 5. In other words, it is sufficient that the direction in which the atmosphere is blown out has a (+Z) direction component.

[0080] As described above, the training system 1 for supporting a user's exercise includes the blower 13 that forms an atmosphere flow and the blow-out structure 2 that takes in the atmosphere flow formed by the blower 13 and blows it out toward the user. The blow-out structure 2 includes air supply pipes 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25 that form an atmosphere flow path, and a connection pipe 20 that takes in the atmosphere flow formed by the blower 13 and directs it to the air supply pipes 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25. The air supply pipes 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25 are formed with air outlets 200 for blowing the atmosphere outward, and the air outlets 200 blow the atmosphere out toward the user from below the user. This does not obstruct the user's view during training, and does not impair the sense of realism. Furthermore, by placing the blow-out structure 2 below the user, the area (floor area) required for training can be reduced compared to when the blow-out structure 2 is placed in front of the user. In other words, the installation space can be reduced.

[0081] Moreover, the air supply pipes 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25 are arranged so that the flow paths surround the user in a plan view, and therefore, air can be blown out from around the user, thereby effectively blowing air.

[0082] Furthermore, the device further includes an exercise observation device 15 that acquires exercise data 150 related to the user's exercise, and has an airflow control unit 401 that adjusts the airflow rate of the air blower 13 in accordance with the exercise data 150 acquired by the exercise observation device 15. This allows for airflow that is in accordance with the exercise, thereby improving the user's sense of presence, for example.

[0083] Furthermore, by further including a human body observation device 3 that acquires human body data 300 about the user while exercising, and by including an air blowing control unit 401 that adjusts the airflow rate of the blower 13 in accordance with the human body data 300 acquired by the human body observation device 3, it is possible to realize air blowing that suits the user's condition, which in turn improves the user's sense of refreshment.

[0084] <2. Second Embodiment> The blowout structure 2 in the first embodiment has been described as an example of a structure in which the direction in which the atmosphere is blown out cannot be changed. However, it is also possible to configure the direction in which the atmosphere is blown out to be changeable.

[0085] 6 is a diagram showing a training system 1a according to the second embodiment. The training system 1a according to the second embodiment differs from the training system 1 according to the first embodiment in that the training system 1a includes a blow-out structure 5 instead of the blow-out structure 2. In the following description, the same components of the training system 1a as those of the training system 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0086] As will be described in more detail later, the blow-out structure 5 can change its posture between a first posture (posture shown by solid lines) similar to that of the blow-out structure 2 in the first embodiment, and a second posture shown by virtual lines (dashed two-dot lines).

[0087] Fig. 7 is a diagram showing the air outlet structure 5 in the second embodiment. Note that Fig. 7 shows the air outlet structure 5 in the first position.

[0088] The blow-out structure 5 in the second embodiment differs from the blow-out structure 2 in the first embodiment in that it has a connection pipe 50 instead of the connection pipe 20, and in that it has an air supply pipe 60 instead of the air supply pipes 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25.

[0089] The connection pipe 50 includes a short pipe 51 arranged in a direction substantially parallel to the Y axis, and a large pipe 52 arranged in a direction substantially parallel to the X axis.

[0090] Short pipe 51 is a circular pipe having a doughnut-shaped cross section, and is formed as a straight pipe with a relatively short length in the Y-axis direction (longitudinal direction). The end of short pipe 51 on the (+Y) side is connected to blower 13. Therefore, in the second embodiment, the flow of atmosphere formed by blower 13 is taken into short pipe 51 (connection pipe 50).

[0091] Furthermore, the (-Y) end of short pipe 51 is connected to the center of thick pipe 52. Therefore, the flow of atmosphere taken into short pipe 51 is blown out from the (-Y) end of short pipe 51 toward thick pipe 52.

[0092] The distance between exercise machine 10 (user) and blower 13 can be changed by changing the size of short tube 51 in the Y-axis direction. For example, a plurality of short tubes 51 with different sizes in the Y-axis direction may be prepared so that they can be replaced as needed according to the user's preferences. Alternatively, short tube 51 may be configured in an accordion-like shape so that it can be freely extended and retracted in the Y-axis direction.

[0093] Large pipe 52 is a relatively large straight pipe arranged to extend substantially parallel to the X-axis. Similar to short pipe 51, large pipe 52 has a toe-shaped cross section, and large pipe 52 is also a so-called circular pipe.

[0094] Large pipe 52 has a connection portion formed on the side surface on the (+Y) side of the center portion for communicating with short pipe 51. In the second embodiment, the connection portion of large pipe 52 is a circular hole into which the end of short pipe 51 can be inserted. By connecting short pipe 51 to large pipe 52, connecting pipe 50 becomes a T-shaped pipe.

[0095] The (-X) side end of the thick pipe 52 is connected in communication with the first connecting member 70 of the air supply piping 60. Therefore, one side of the flow of atmosphere blown out from the (-X) side end of the thick pipe 52 is blown out toward the first connecting member 70 (air supply piping 60).

[0096] Furthermore, the (+X) side end of the thick pipe 52 is connected in communication with the first connecting member 71 of the air supply piping 60. Therefore, the other flow of the atmosphere blown out from the (+X) side end of the thick pipe 52 is blown out toward the first connecting member 71 (air supply piping 60).

[0097] In this way, in the blow-out structure 5 in the second embodiment as well, the connection pipe 50 has the function of taking in the flow of atmosphere formed by the blower 13 and guiding it to the air supply pipe 60.

[0098] As will be described in detail later, the first coupling members 70, 71 are connected in communication by being inserted into the thick tube 52 in a direction along the X-axis. That is, the (+X) side end of the first coupling member 70 is inserted into the (-X) side end of the thick tube 52. Similarly, the (-X) side end of the first coupling member 71 is inserted into the (+X) side end of the thick tube 52. The outer surfaces of the portions of the first coupling members 70, 71 fitted into the thick tube 52 are configured to slide while making contact with the inner surface of the thick tube 52. As a result, the first coupling members 70, 71 are not fixed to the thick tube 52, but are rotatable about an axis substantially parallel to the X-axis.

[0099] As shown in FIG. 7, the air supply pipe 60 in the second embodiment includes straight pipes 61, 62, 63, 64, and 65, first connecting members 70 and 71, second connecting members 72 and 73, and third connecting members 74 and 75.

[0100] The straight pipes 61, 62, 63, 64, and 65 each have a doughnut-shaped cross section and form a hollow circular pipe. Each of the straight pipes 61, 62, 63, 64, and 65 is formed as a pipe that extends linearly in the longitudinal direction. Therefore, the inside of each of the straight pipes 61, 62, 63, 64, and 65, which forms a flow path for the atmosphere, is substantially cylindrical.

[0101] Although not shown in the figure, through holes (air outlets) similar to the air outlets 200 of the air supply pipes 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 in the first embodiment are formed on the sides of the straight pipes 61, 62, 63, 64, 65 in a line along the longitudinal direction of each pipe.

[0102] The first connecting members 70, 71, the second connecting members 72, 73, and the third connecting members 74, 75 are all hollow and form flow paths for the atmosphere. The first connecting members 70, 71, the second connecting members 72, 73, and the third connecting members 74, 75 are each shaped like a circular pipe bent at a predetermined angle.

[0103] In the air outlet structure 5 according to the second embodiment, the first connecting member 70 and the first connecting member 71 are members of the same shape and are arranged at positions that are symmetrical with respect to a plane parallel to the YZ plane. Similarly, the second connecting member 72 and the second connecting member 73 are members of the same shape, and the third connecting member 74 and the third connecting member 75 are members of the same shape.

[0104] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the state of connection between the straight pipes 62 and 63 and the third connecting member 74.

[0105] The straight pipes 62, 63 have larger inner circumferential dimensions and thinner wall thicknesses at both ends than at the center. Although not shown, the straight pipes 61, 64, 65 have a similar structure. On the other hand, the third connecting member 74 has smaller outer circumferential dimensions and thinner wall thicknesses at both ends than at the center. Although not shown, the first connecting members 70, 71, the second connecting members 72, 73, and the third connecting member 75 also have a similar structure.

[0106] 8, the end of the third coupling member 74 can be inserted into the end of the (-Y) side of the straight pipe 62. This allows the straight pipe 62 and the third coupling member 74 to be connected in fluid communication. Similarly, the end of the third coupling member 74 can be inserted into the end of the (-X) side of the straight pipe 63. This allows the straight pipe 63 and the third coupling member 74 to be connected in fluid communication. In other words, the straight pipe 62 and the straight pipe 63 are connected in fluid communication via the third coupling member 74.

[0107] Furthermore, with this structure, the straight pipes 62 and 63 can rotate about axes parallel to their longitudinal directions, as shown by the curved arrows in FIG.

[0108] As already explained, for example, the air outlets are formed on the side surface of the straight pipe 62 so as to be aligned on a straight line parallel to the Y axis. Therefore, by rotating the straight pipe 62 about an axis parallel to the Y axis, the air supply pipe 60 can change the blowing direction of the atmosphere blown out from the straight pipe 62. In this way, the air supply structure 5 in the second embodiment can blow air in a direction preferred by the user, for example, by changing the direction of the atmosphere blown out from the air supply pipe 60.

[0109] For example, in the training system 1a, any commercially available bicycle owned by the user can be used as the exercise machine 10. However, this means that the size and other characteristics of the exercise machine 10 used by the user will vary, and the user's position during exercise will change slightly. Furthermore, the exercise machine 10 that can be used in the training system 1a is not limited to a bicycle. However, because the air outlet structure 5 can change and adjust the direction of the atmosphere blown out from the air supply piping 60, it is possible to blow air according to the user's position. In other words, the training system 1a has improved versatility.

[0110] 7, the (+X) side end of the first coupling member 70 is connected to and communicates with the (-X) side end of the thick pipe 52. The other end of the first coupling member 70 is connected to and communicates with the end of the straight pipe 61. As a result, the atmosphere blowing out from the (-X) side end of the thick pipe 52 (connection pipe 50) is taken in from the end of the first coupling member 70 (air supply pipe 60) and is led to the straight pipe 61.

[0111] The (-X) side end of the first coupling member 71 is connected in communication with the (+X) side end of the large pipe 52. The other end of the first coupling member 71 is connected in communication with the end of the straight pipe 65. As a result, the atmosphere blown out from the (+X) side end of the large pipe 52 (connection pipe 50) is taken in from the end of the first coupling member 71 (air supply pipe 60) and is led to the straight pipe 65.

[0112] An end of the second connecting member 72 is connected to and communicates with the other end of the straight pipe 61 (the end opposite to the end connected to the first connecting member 70). An end of the second connecting member 72 on the (-Y) side is connected to and communicates with an end of the straight pipe 62 on the (+Y) side.

[0113] An end of the second connecting member 73 is connected to and communicates with the other end of the straight pipe 65 (the end opposite to the end connected to the first connecting member 71). An end of the second connecting member 73 on the (-Y) side is connected to and communicates with an end of the straight pipe 64 on the (+Y) side.

[0114] The (+Y) side end of the third connecting member 75 is connected to and communicates with the (-Y) side end of the straight pipe 64. The (-X) side end of the third connecting member 75 is connected to and communicates with the (+X) side end of the straight pipe 63.

[0115] In this way, in the blowing structure 5 as well, the air supply pipe 60 forms a ring-shaped flow path.

[0116] As already explained, the thick pipe 52 of the connection pipe 50 and the first coupling members 70, 71 of the air supply pipe 60 are coupled to be rotatable around an axis parallel to the X-axis. Therefore, when the first coupling members 70, 71 are rotated by approximately 90° relative to the thick pipe 52 in the first position, the air supply pipe 60 (blowout structure 5) is changed to the second position as shown in FIG.

[0117] As a result, the flow paths that were arranged in a plane parallel to the horizontal plane in the first posture are arranged in a plane parallel to the XZ plane in the second posture. That is, the air supply pipe 60 of the blow-out structure 5 can change the arrangement of the flow paths.

[0118] In the first embodiment, the air outlet structure 2 is limited to blowing air from below the user. When the exercise equipment 10 is a bicycle as shown in FIG. 1, it is unlikely that there will be any obstacles below the user, and therefore air blowing from below is unlikely to be obstructed. However, for example, when a chest press is used as the exercise equipment 10, it is conceivable that there will be an obstacle below the user, and effective cooling cannot be achieved by blowing air from below alone.

[0119] As is clear from Figure 6, in the flow path arranged in the second position indicated by the two-dot chain line, the atmosphere is blown from the front of the user. In this way, the air outlet structure 5 in the second embodiment can blow air not only from below but also from the front. Therefore, the training system 1a can select the air blowing direction depending on the exercise equipment 10, which increases the variety of exercise equipment 10 that can be used and improves versatility.

[0120] When the arrangement of the air supply pipe 60 is changed from the first position to the second position, it is also necessary to rotate the straight pipes 61, 62, 63, 64, and 65. In addition, by changing the position of the blower 13, the blow-out structure 5 can also blow air from behind or to the left or right of the user, for example.

[0121] As described above, the training system 1a in the second embodiment includes the blowout structure 5, and can obtain the same effects as the training system 1 in the first embodiment.

[0122] Furthermore, in the air supply piping 60 of the second embodiment, the straight pipes 61, 62, 63, 64, and 65 are rotatable about their longitudinal axes. Therefore, by changing the direction of the air blown out from the outlets of the straight pipes 61, 62, 63, 64, and 65, it is possible to supply air according to the user's position and preferences. In other words, the training system 1a has improved versatility.

[0123] Moreover, the air supply pipe 60 in the second embodiment is configured to be rotatable relative to the connection pipe 50. Therefore, the air outlet structure 5 changes the arrangement of the atmosphere flow path by changing its position between the first position and the second position. This allows the air outlet structure 5 to blow air not only from below the user but also from other directions. In other words, the versatility of the training system 1a is further improved.

[0124] In the blowout structure 5, it is preferable to provide a structure such as a stopper or a support stand for suppressing rotation of the first connecting members 70, 71 so that the air supply pipe 60 does not easily tip over when in the second position.

[0125] <3. Modifications> Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and can be modified in various ways.

[0126] For example, in the above embodiment, the air outlet 200 has been described as a simple through-hole. However, for example, the air supply pipes 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25 may be provided with a nozzle-like structure that can precisely regulate the direction in which the atmosphere is blown out.

[0127] Furthermore, the blowout structures 2 and 5 may be configured to be easily assembled and disassembled. For example, the connection pipe 20 and the air supply pipes 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25 may be configured to be removable. This allows the blowout structure 2 to be disassembled when not in use, thereby reducing storage space.

[0128] In the above embodiment, the monitor control unit 402 is described as being configured not to refer to human body data 300. However, the monitor control unit 402 may create the reproduced data 413 by referring to the human body data 300. For example, the current body temperature included in the human body data 300 may be included in the reproduced data 413 and displayed on the monitor device 14.

[0129] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, an example has been described in which the short pipe 51 of the connection pipe 50 is configured to be extendable and retractable. However, it is also effective to configure the straight pipes 62, 64 so that the longitudinal size thereof is changeable. In particular, the air outlet structure 5 in the second embodiment is switchable between a first position and a second position. Therefore, for example, when in the second position, the height position (position in the Z-axis direction) of the air outlet can be changed by changing the longitudinal size of the straight pipes 62, 64. [Explanation of symbols]

[0130] 1,1a Training System 10 Exercise equipment 100,101 wheels 11 sheets 12 Stand 13 Blower 14 Monitor Device 15 Motion Observation Device 150 exercise data 2,5 Blowout structure 20,50 Connecting piping 200 Air outlet 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 60 Ventilation piping 3 Human body observation equipment 300 human body data 4. Operation terminal device 40 CPU 400 Communication control unit 401 Air flow control unit 402 Monitor control unit 41 Storage device 410 Program 411 User Data 412 Switching Data 413 Playback Data 42 Operation section 43 Display section 44 Radio Communication Department 51 Short tube 52 Thick pipe 61,62,63,64,65 straight pipe 70, 71 First connecting member 72, 73 Second connecting member 74,75 Third connecting member

Claims

1. A blow-out structure that takes in an air flow formed by an external blower and blows it out toward a user, an air supply pipe that forms a flow path for the atmosphere; a connection pipe that takes in the atmosphere flow formed by the blower and leads it to the air blowing pipe; Equipped with The air supply pipe is formed with an outlet for blowing the atmosphere outward, The air outlet is a blowing structure that blows the atmosphere toward the user from below the user.

2. The blow-out structure according to claim 1, The air supply pipe is a blowing structure arranged so that the flow path is in a substantially horizontal direction.

3. The blow-out structure according to claim 1, The air supply pipe is a blowout structure in which the flow path is arranged so as to surround a user in a plan view.

4. The blow-out structure according to claim 1, The air supply pipe is a blow-out structure that changes the direction of the atmosphere blown out from the air outlet.

5. The blow-out structure according to claim 1, The air supply pipe has a blowout structure in which the position of the air flow path is changed by changing the position between a first position and a second position.

6. A training system that supports exercise for a user, a blower that forms a flow of atmosphere; a blowout structure that takes in the air flow formed by the blower and blows it out toward the user; Equipped with The blow-out structure includes: an air supply pipe that forms a flow path for the atmosphere; a connection pipe that takes in the atmosphere flow formed by the blower and leads it to the air blowing pipe; Equipped with The air supply pipe is formed with an outlet for blowing the atmosphere outward, The air outlet blows the atmosphere toward the user from below the user.

7. 7. The training system of claim 6, Further, an exercise observation device is provided to acquire exercise data relating to the exercise of the user, A training system that adjusts the airflow rate of the blower in accordance with the exercise data acquired by the exercise observation device.

8. 7. The training system of claim 6, a human body observation device for acquiring human body data relating to the user during exercise; A training system that adjusts the airflow rate of the blower in accordance with the human body data acquired by the human body observation device.

Images